Medical dermatology is similar to cosmetic dermatology in many ways but also differs significantly. Cosmetic dermatology mainly focuses on making the skin, hair and nails look more aesthetically pleasing. It focuses on anti-aging treatments, such as fillers, wrinkle reducers, and non-invasive and minimally-invasive treatments for giving the skin better tone and texture. On the other hand, medical dermatology is used to diagnose and treat diseases and issues of the skin, hair, and nails. These diseases may be caused by external organisms that manifest themselves in problems on the skin or by internal issues that affect the skin.
A medical dermatologist is a fully trained and licensed medical doctor who has focused his or her specialization on the skin, hair, and nails. These professionals are equipped to treat thousands of different diseases, including common rashes and infections as well as chronic problems, such as eczema. Skin cancer is another increasingly common concern that medical dermatology can address. A dermatologist does not solely focus on the skin of the face, arms, and legs. Instead, he or she can also focus on areas that are rarely seen, such as the soles of the feet and even the skin in the groin.
You should see a medical dermatologist at least once a year if you have not been diagnosed with any specific problems of the skin, hair, or nails. Your yearly checkup will include a complete skin examination. Our doctor will note any moles, rashes, infections or other areas of special concern and will help you find good treatment options. The doctor will also keep an eye on certain areas, such as moles, to see if they change year after year.
A medical dermatologist can work with patients of all ages, genders and skin colors. He or she provides help for acute and chronic problems, life-changing conditions, genetic issues and even autoimmune diseases affecting the skin. He or she will work with the specific knowledge gained by a specialized education to diagnose the problem. You may need a series of tests to help the practitioner arrive at the correct conclusion. These could be noninvasive or minimally invasive tests. Once you are correctly diagnosed, your medical dermatologist will prescribe the right treatment. Many times, you can treat yourself at home using an over-the-counter or prescription medication or ointment. Some medications are used topically on the affected skin or nails. Others must be taken orally to treat certain fungal infections or to improve the health of your skin or hair from the inside out.
Just because your medical dermatologist is trained mainly in the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair and nail diseases does not mean that he or she will not be able to help you with your cosmetic concerns as well. This specialized knowledge results in wonderful benefits as you seek to age gracefully and always look your best. Ask us today about all of the different ways that our medical dermatologists can help you at your first consultation in our state-of-the-art office.
Contact Orlando Dermatology, Inc. to schedule your consultation today! We are conveniently located in Orlando, FL.